Solar energy shade structure

ABSTRACT

In accordance with various exemplary embodiments, solar energy shade structures and methods of design and revenue generation are disclosed. These systems comprise structures capable of supporting solar panel at heights greater than 18 feet above their mounting surface. These systems may be installed in confined spaces. These systems also comprise structures that are customizable, allowing an installation to be configured with a desired lighting and environmental effect. The methods discussed herein describe processes for achieving desired design effects based on natural elements. Moreover, the methods discussed herein describe processes for reducing the costs of generating solar energy and/or reducing the costs of providing a solar structure.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.16/368,481, filed Mar. 28, 2019, entitled “Solar Energy ShadeStructure”. U.S. application Ser. No. 16/368,481 is a continuation ofU.S. application Ser. No. 15/094,760, filed Apr. 8, 2016, entitled“Solar Energy Shade Structure” now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,277,160 onApr. 30, 2019. U.S. application Ser. No. 15/094,760 is a continuation ofU.S. application Ser. No. 14/472,876, filed Aug. 29, 2014, entitled“Solar Energy Collecting Systems and Methods”, now issued as U.S. Pat.No. 9,335,069 on Jul. 10, 2016, which is a continuation of U.S.application Ser. No. 13/185,190, filed Jul. 18, 2011, entitled “SolarEnergy Collecting Systems and Methods”, now issued as U.S. Pat. No.8,825,500 on Sep. 2, 2014, and claims priority to U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 61/399,728, filed Jul. 16, 2010, entitled “Solar EnergyCollecting Shade Structure”, which are herein incorporated by referencein their entirety.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present disclosure generally relates to apparatus, systems andmethods for collecting solar energy and relates more specifically toproviding shade and collecting solar energy.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There is an unsolved need to collect large amounts of solar energywithout causing a large negative impact to the local environment wherethe energy is collected. Some current solar energy collectiontechnologies collect energy for personal use by mounting photovoltaicsolar panels on the rooftops of homes or other buildings. Thesetechnologies are fine for personal use but they are restricted tocollecting relatively small amounts of energy (50 kilowatts or less).Other current solar energy collection technologies collect large amountsof solar energy (one megawatt to several hundred megawatts) byconverting large tracts of land into solar farms. These largeinstallations make a major negative environmental impact on the landthey occupy. In addition, large installations require the energy theygenerate to be transported to the cities where it is needed via newtransmission lines. These new transmission lines are costly and have afurther negative impact on the environment.

What is needed is a means to collect large amounts of solar energy incities where the energy is used in a manner that improves and beautifiesthe local environment and has positive environmental externalities.

A second unsolved problem in the areas of the world which have intensesunshine is that many public and private open spaces are underutilizedbecause the sun makes it uncomfortable for people to use those spacesduring much of the year. It is too expensive to provide large amounts ofshade for those areas. Additionally, many of the plants native to thoseareas would thrive in the shade if it could be provided.

What is needed is a cost effective means to provide shade for largepublic and private open spaces to make the spaces more comfortable forpeople to use. Furthermore, the shade should be provided in a mannerthat allows plants to flourish.

A third unsolved problem is that the large parking lots in cities withintense sunshine absorb large amounts of heat from the sun and thenlater reemit that heat. This absorbing and reemitting of heat is knownas the heat island effect and makes the cities hotter during the day andhotter longer into the evening. Examples are large asphalt or concreteparking lots such as are typically found near shopping centers and largebusiness areas.

What is needed is a cost effective means to reduce the heat absorbed bythe large asphalt parking lots from the sun and thereby reduce the heatisland effect in cities with intense sunshine.

A fourth unsolved problem is a way to minimize the area required tocollect solar energy. Typically, once solar is installed on a tract ofland the land cannot be used for anything else or has only limited uses.The land is generally fully occupied by being a solar collectionfacility. Further when the solar panels are placed near the ground,access roads and paths must be created consuming additional land area.Also, the placement of inverters and other necessary equipment such astransmission lines takes up even more land. Finally, the solar panelsgenerally need to be set back away from nearby tall objects such astrees, fences or buildings on adjacent land in order to functionefficiently.

What is needed is a means to minimize the amount of land required tocollect solar energy and further what is needed is a means to allow theland dedicated to collecting solar energy to be simultaneously used forother purposes.

A fifth unsolved problem is the cost of solar energy. Simply put solarenergy costs much more to produce than tradition methods of generatingelectricity. Thus, a means is needed to reduce or offset the cost ofsolar energy produced.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In an exemplary embodiment, a method of generating revenue with a solarstructure is provided. This revenue may likely come from three or moresources, including for example, solar panel revenue, shade revenue, andstructure revenue. The method includes providing a solar structurecomprising a plurality of solar panels. The electricity generated fromthe solar panels may be sold to produce revenue. Advertising may also beaffixed to the solar structure. Revenue may be collected by the solarstructure owner from a business for affixing advertising provided bythat business. Antennas may also be affixed to the solar structure.Revenue may be collected for affixing the antennas from owners of radiostations, cell phone companies and the like. Further, electric carcharging stations may be provided beneath the solar structure. Revenuemay be collected from electric car owners for use of the chargingstation and for power consumed. Revenue may also be generated from feescharged for using the shaded space provided by the solar structure, andfrom fees charged for parking in the shaded space provided by the solarstructure. Donations may also be collected to offset the cost of thesolar panels and/or the cost of construction of the solar structure. Thenames of donors may be displayed.

In an embodiment, the solar structure may be configured with electronicdisplays such as, for example, televisions or interactive kiosks. Thesedisplays may be configured to display information and/or advertising. Inan embodiment, the displays may be interactive.

In an embodiment, a method for maintaining a solar structure isprovided. The solar structure may have a height of at least 18 feet, atop side facing the sun and an opposing bottom side. The solar structuremay comprise a plurality of solar panels. The solar panels may beinstalled on the top side at an angle between approximately 5 degreesand approximately 15 degrees, and may be accessible from the bottom ofthe solar structure. To maintain the structure, a user may access aretaining mechanism from the bottom side of the solar structure. Theretaining mechanism may be configured to attach the solar panel to thesolar structure. The solar panel may be disconnected from the structureby disconnecting the retaining mechanism. The solar panel may then berotated, such that the solar panel passes from the top side to thebottom side. As noted above and as discussed in detail below the solarpanels may be installed at varying angles. In an embodiment, the solarpanels are installed on the top side at approximately 8 degrees.Moreover, the solar panels may be arranged in any suitable fashion. Assuch, in various embodiments, the solar panels are arranged to producebetween approximately 10 kwh/ft² and approximately 15 kwh/ft².

In an exemplary embodiment, a solar panel system comprises a structureinstalled over a public area. The public area may include for example, aparking lot, a walkway or mall, a public sitting area, a public courtyard, an open air market, and/or the like. The structure may beconfigured to support and retain a plurality of solar panels. Theplurality of solar panels may be spaced apart, such that natural lightis permitted to pass through the structure. As such, trees and othervegetation may be located under the structure. This height may alsoallow for a plurality of security cameras to be installed on thestructure. The security cameras may be installed at a height of at least18 feet above the ground and unobstructed by the structure.

The structure may be supported by one or more vertical supports that areat least 20 feet tall. As such, the structure may be elevated such thatthe solar panels are subjected to a cooling airflow. The structure mayalso be configured to display advertisements.

In an exemplary embodiment, a solar panel system may comprise a centerstructure, a side structure and a corner structure. The center structuremay have generally rectangular shape having a first length. The sidestructure may have a generally rectangular shape having a second lengthand a second width. The side structure may be coupled to the centerstructure in a cantilevered configuration, wherein the first length ofthe center structure corresponds to the second length of the sidestructure. The corner structure may have a generally rectangular shapehaving a third length and a third width. The corner structure may becoupled to the side structure in a cantilevered configuration, whereinthe second width of the side structure corresponds to the third width ofthe corner structure.

In an exemplary embodiment, the solar panel system may further comprisea plurality of solar panels that are adjustably attached to the centerstructure. The solar panel system may also comprise a plurality of shadepanels, wherein the shade panels are adjustably attached to the centerstructure. The system may comprise one or more support structures, whichis fixedly attached to the corners of the center structure. The supportstructures may be at least 18 feet tall.

The plurality of solar panels may be uniformly or non-uniformlydistributed across the center structure. The non-uniform arrangement maybe configured such that light passing through the center structureprovides a desired lighting profile. The desired lighting profile may bean approximation of a shade profile of a natural element.

In an exemplary method for designing a solar structure, a photograph istaken to capture the shade profile of a natural element. The photographmay be pixilated and adjusted based on a set of predetermined factors toachieve a design plan. Based on that design plan, a plurality of solarpanels may be arranged corresponding to the design plan to approximatethe shade profile of the natural element. In an exemplary embodiment,the plurality of solar panels may be installed on a structure inaccordance with the design plan in a public area. In accordance with anexemplary method, the predetermined factors may include lifting forceload, shearing force load, lighting requirements, and weightrequirements.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more complete understanding of the present invention may be derived byreferring to the detailed description and claims when considered inconnection with the Figures, wherein like reference numbers refer tosimilar elements throughout the Figures, and where:

FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary solar energy collecting shade structureshowing people, a car and a tree under the structure;

FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the columns that areattached to the edges of a Center Structure Module;

FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of joists in place betweenstructural beams;

FIG. 4A illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary a modularstructure including solar panels arranged to achieve dappling beneaththe modular structure;

FIG. 4B illustrates an exploded view of an exemplary installation of amodular structure over a parking area;

FIG. 4C illustrates an exploded view of an exemplary installation of amodular structure over a parking area;

FIG. 5A illustrates a perspective view of an uncladded brace-frame inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 5B illustrates a perspective view of an cladded brace-frame inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 6A-FIG. 6D illustrate an exemplary method of creating the spacingof the shade panels from a pattern yielded from the process ofpixilation of photographs of the shade profile of a tree;

FIG. 6A is a photograph of an exemplary shade profile of a tree branch;

FIG. 6B is an exemplary pixilation of the photograph of the shadeprofile of a tree branch;

FIG. 6C illustrates an adjustment of the exemplary pixilation of thephotograph of the shade profile of a tree branch;

FIG. 6D illustrates a further adjustment of the exemplary pixilation ofthe photograph of the shade profile of a tree branch corresponding to adesign plan for an arrangement of solar panels;

FIG. 7A illustrates a top view of an exemplary modular structure loadedwith solar panels in accordance with the design plan; and

FIG. 7B illustrates a perspective bottom view of an exemplary modularstructure loaded with solar panels in accordance with the design plan toprovide dappled light and installed in front of a store front.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description is of various exemplary embodiments only, andis not intended to limit the scope, applicability or configuration ofthe present disclosure in any way. Rather, the following description isintended to provide a convenient illustration for implementing variousembodiments including the best mode. As will become apparent, variouschanges may be made in the function and arrangement of the elementsdescribed in these embodiments, without departing from the scope of theappended claims. For example, the steps recited in any of the method orprocess descriptions may be executed in any order and are notnecessarily limited to the order presented. Moreover, many of themanufacturing functions or steps may be outsourced to or performed byone or more third parties. Furthermore, any reference to singularincludes plural embodiments, and any reference to more than onecomponent or step may include a singular embodiment or step. Also, anyreference to attached, fixed, connected or the like may includepermanent, removable, temporary, partial, full and/or any other possibleattachment option. As used herein, the terms “coupled,” “coupling,” orany other variation thereof, are intended to cover a physicalconnection, an electrical connection, a magnetic connection, an opticalconnection, a communicative connection, a functional connection, and/orany other connection.

For the sake of brevity, conventional techniques for mechanical systemconstruction, management, operation, measurement, optimization, and/orcontrol, as well as conventional techniques for mechanical powertransfer, modulation, control, and/or use, may not be described indetail herein. Furthermore, the connecting lines shown in variousfigures contained herein are intended to represent exemplary functionalrelationships and/or physical couplings between various elements. Itshould be noted that many alternative or additional functionalrelationships or physical connections may be present in a modularstructure.

In an exemplary embodiment, a modular structure comprises minimalstructural support components and is capable of supporting a widevariety of solar energy collection panels above the ground. Thestructure may comprise a center structure module attached to one or moreadditional structure modules. The structure may be installed in publicor private areas including, for example, parking lots, parks, walkways,driving lanes, playgrounds, outdoor markets, sport viewing areas,performing arts areas, and other public or private areas. Moreover,these structures may be configured to be at least 18 feet tall. Thestructures may also be configured to allow dappled light to hit theground, which may provide direct sunlight for vegetation and otherfeatures located under the structures.

In an exemplary embodiment and with reference to FIG. 1, a modularstructure 100 comprises a solar panel holding structure 110 (hereinafter“SPHS 110”) and one or more vertical supports 120. In an embodiment,SPHS 110 is mounted to and supported by one or more vertical supports120. Modular structure 100 may further comprise one or more solarcollection panels 130 and one or more shade panels 140. In anembodiment, one or more solar collection panels 130 are installed inSPHS 110. Similarly, one or more shade panels 140 may be installed inSPHS 110.

In an exemplary embodiment, vertical support 120 may be any structuresuitable for supporting a shade structure and/or solar panels. In anembodiment, vertical support 120 is taller than a conventional verticalsupport for a shade structure. For example, in one embodiment, verticalsupport 120 may be approximately 18 feet to approximately 30 feet tall.In another embodiment, vertical support 120 may be approximately 22 feetto approximately 30 feet tall. In yet another embodiment, verticalsupport 120 may be approximately 25 feet to approximately 30 feet tall.In still another embodiment, vertical support 120 is approximately 25feet tall. The increased height of vertical support 120 provides greatervisibility. For example, the increased height of vertical support 120allows for security cameras to be placed beneath the SPHS 110. Thisconfiguration allows security cameras to effectively monitor, whilebeing positioned high enough from public spaces to avoid, vandalism,tampering, or an adverse impact on the environment. The increased heightof vertical support also provides other advantages. For example, theincreased height positions solar collection panels 130 further away fromthe ground which results in an increase in cooling airflow. This coolingairflow causes solar collection panels 130 to operate more efficientlyby maintaining a cooler operating temperature. Also, the increasedheight reduces the likelihood of adjacent objects of structures shadingthe solar panels.

In another embodiment, the increased height of vertical support 120facilitates planting trees, vegetation, and placing structuresunderneath modular structure 100. For example, large trees and othertypes of vegetation that are less than 18 feet tall may be includedunder the structure. These trees and/or vegetation may be strategicallyplaced under modular structure 100 so that they receive sunlight that isallowed to pass through modular structure 100. Moreover, the ability toinclude trees and vegetation provides cooling and environmental ambiancenot possible to obtain if the structure does not permit such vegetationdue to its low clearance.

In an exemplary embodiment, solar collection panel 130 is any device orapparatus configured to receive sunlight and generate electricity.Moreover, solar collection panel 130 may also provide shade. In oneembodiment, solar collection panel 130 is a photovoltaic solar panel.Solar collection panel 130 may be of any suitable size, including forexample, a 4 foot by 8 foot panel.

In an exemplary embodiment, shade panel 140 may be any device orapparatus configured to provide shade. Shade panel 140 may be made ofany suitable material, including for example, a textile, wood, metal,plastic, or any other suitable material capable of providing shade. Inone embodiment, shade panel 140 may be an artistic element. Shade panel140 may be opaque or translucent. Shade panel 140 may also comprise oneor more colors. Shade panel 140 may also include a design element. Thisdesign element may be visible from above or below modular structure 100.Moreover, in an exemplary embodiment, the design elements are arrangedto create visual creative works, messages, and/or art. In an embodiment,shade panel 140 may be the same size or half the size of solarcollection panel 130. Shade panel 140 may also be proportionally sizedsuch that it may be installed with SPHS 110 with solar panels 130 toprovide an aesthetically pleasing appearance. In one embodiment, shadepanel 140 may be any suitable size.

In an exemplary embodiment and with reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, SPHS110 is any structure configured to support one or more solar collectionpanels. SPHS 110 may, in various exemplary embodiments, also support oneor more shade panels 140. In various embodiments, SPHS 110 may bemodular or may have a unitary design. In one embodiment and withspecific reference to FIG. 2, SPHS 210 is modular and may comprise acenter section 211. SPHS 110 may further comprise at least one of one ormore side sections 212 and one or more corner sections 213. In anembodiment, center section 211, side section 212 and/or corner section213 may have horizontal structural beams around their edges.

In an embodiment, side section 212 is configured to couple to centersection 211. Similarly, corner section 213 may be configured to coupleto side section 212 or center section 211. In an embodiment, one or morecorner section 213 and/or one or more side section 212 may be coupled tocenter section 211 in cantilevered arrangements. The cantileveredarrangements provide modular structure 200 with an architecturallightness. Moreover, in various embodiments, one or more side sections212 and one or more corner sections 213 may be coupled to center section211 to provide customizable SPHS 210. This allows modular structure 200to be sized to fit the specific needs of the installation environment,site and context.

In an embodiment, center section 211 may be approximately 64 feet by 64feet. In various embodiments, center section 211 may be larger than 20feet by 20 feet but smaller than 64 feet by 64 feet. Moreover, in otherembodiments, center section 211 may be larger than 64 feet by 64 feetbut smaller than 128 feet by 128 feet. In an embodiment, side module 212may be approximately 16 feet by 64 feet. In various embodiments, sidemodule 212 may be larger than 8 feet by 20 feet but smaller than 16 feetby 64 feet. In various other embodiments, side structure 212 may belarger than 16 feet by 64 feet but smaller than 32 feet by 128 feet. Inan embodiment, corner section 213 may be approximately 16 feet on aside. In various embodiments, corner section 213 may be larger than 8feet on a side but smaller than 16 feet on a side. In various otherembodiments, corner section 213 may be larger than 16 feet on a side butsmaller than 32 feet on a side. Moreover, in various embodiments,dimensions of center section 211, side section 212, and corner section213 vary within a single structure. This allows modular structure 200 tocover any space. For example, in a parking lot installation, modularstructure 200 may be laid out on a 64′ by 64′ grid to provide spacingfor a parking lot layout and to minimize the number of columns extendingvertically from places other than parking stall lines. Modular structure200 may also be laid out on a grid matching the dimensions of anexisting parking lot layout and to minimize the number of columnsextending vertically from places other than parking stall lines.

In an exemplary embodiment, center section 211 may be bisected in onedirection by a structural beam from approximately the center of one sideto approximately the center of the opposite side of center section 211.The installation of the structural beam may be configured to providemodular structure 200 with additional strength and rigidity under deadload, lift and/or shearing forces.

In another embodiment, modular structure 200 may comprise portions ofthe structure edged by structural beams. In one embodiment, the entirestructure of modular structure 200 may be edged by structural beams.These structural beams may include, for example, I-beams, wide flangebeams, square beams, tubes, and/or any other suitable structural beam orstructure.

In an exemplary embodiment and with reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 3,modular structure 300 may further comprise one or more panel supports350. Panel support 350 may be coupled to SPHS 310 in any fashion and inany orientation. In an embodiment, panel support 350 is configured tocouple to at least one of center section 311, side section 312 or cornersection 313. Panel support 350 may couple to any one of center section311, side section 312 or corner section 313 in any orientation, such asfor example, at a customizable angle. In an embodiment, panel support350 is configured to couple to and support solar energy collection panel130. Similarly, panel support 350 may be configured to couple to andsupport shade panel 140.

In various embodiments and with reference to FIG. 3, FIG. 4A, FIG. 4B,and FIG. 4C, one or more solar collection panels 430 are installed inSPHS 410 at one or more panel supports 350. Solar collection panels 430may be installed on SPHS 410 in a uniform manner. For example, solarcollection panels 430 may be installed at every installation location onpanel support 350 in SPHS 410 at a common angle. Similarly, solarcollection panels 430 may be installed in a pattern at particularinstallation locations on panel support 350 in SPHS 410 at a commonangle. For example, solar collection panels 430 may be arranged in aparticular fashion to display a logo that can be viewed from above thestructure.

In another embodiment, solar collection panels 430 may also be installedon SPHS 410 in a non-uniform manner. For example, solar collectionpanels 430 may be installed at some or all of the available installationlocations on panel support 350 in SPHS 410 at different angles anddirections. For example, rows of panels may be arranged in opposingdirections such that a first group of panels receive sunlight in themorning as the sun rises and a second group of panels receive sunlightin the afternoon and as the sun sets. A third group of panels may hearranged such that they are relatively parallel with the ground so thatthey receive sun light during mid-day, when the sun is overhead and theintensity of the sunlight is highest. Solar collection panels 430 may bearranged in varying directions and at varying angles in a singlestructural module. The panels may also be arranged in varying directionsand at varying angles by structural module, such that the orientation ofa first group of solar collection panels 430 are consistent across offirst structural module but are different from the orientation of asecond group of solar collection panels 130 across a second structuralmodule.

In another embodiment, solar collection panels 430 may be positioned andtilted in modular structure 400 at such an angle that their full lengthremains within the height of the edge beams. In various embodiments,solar collection panels 430 may be positioned at varying angles betweenapproximately 5 degrees and 15 degrees. In one embodiment, solarcollection panels 430 may be positioned at varying angles betweenapproximately 5 degrees and 10 degrees. In another embodiment, solarcollection panels 430 may be positioned at approximately 8 degrees.Solar energy collection panels 430 may also be positioned and tilted inmodular structure 300/400 at such an angle that some portion of theirlength extends beyond the height of the edge beams.

In a typical solar installation in the Northern Hemisphere, solar panelsare tilted to the south. As a general rule the optimal angle of paneltilt to the south approximates the latitude of the location. As anexample, in the Phoenix, Ariz. area the latitude is about 33° N andsolar panels might be tilted at angles approximating 30°. In addition itis important to note that the angle of the sun varies according to theseason. As an example, in Phoenix, Ariz. the angle of the sun at noonvaries from 32° in winter to 78° in summer. In a typical solarinstallation panels are spaced south to north so that the panel to thesouth does not shade its neighboring panel to the north even at theangle of the sun in the winter. However, when considering the design ofa solar shade structure, the time the shade is most desired is in thesummer. Panels placed at the optimum angle for energy collection andspaced to eliminate shading in winter would allow approximately 75% ofthe sunlight to reach the ground at noon in the summer.

Moreover, solar shade structures over public or private areas in urbanareas need to cover an area determined by the space available. In suchinstallations, solar panels placed at the optimal angle for efficiencyper panel do not generate the optimum energy for the structure. As such,in an embodiment, modular structure 400 may comprise solar collectionpanels placed between approximately 5 degrees and approximately 15degrees in order to provide adequate shade in the summer. Further, solarcollection panels 430 placed at angles between approximately 5 degreesand approximately 10 degrees will allow more rows of solar collectionpanels 430 and generate more energy than structures with panels placedat steeper angles. As such, solar shade structures in fixed spaces maybe best served with panels place at angles of 5° to 10° for two reasons;increased revenue from energy collected and increased shade provided inthe summer months.

Moreover, in various embodiments, installation angles betweenapproximately 5 degrees and approximately 15 degrees allow solarcollection panels 430 to drain when subjected to rain. This range ofangles may also allow panels to be arranged to allow drainage, whileachieving a panel density to provide an effective amount of power outputin a confined space. Where space is confined, solar collection panelsmay be installed at angles of less than 28 degrees to achieve moreefficient power outputs. For example, where solar panels are installedas described herein, an installation with solar panels installed betweenapproximately 5 degrees and approximately 15 degrees may yield betweenapproximately 10 kwh/ft² and 15 kwh/ft². In an embodiment, aninstallation with solar panels installed at approximately 8 degrees mayyield approximately 13.1 kwh/ft².

In an embodiment, the non-uniform placement of panels may be configuredto achieve greater power generation efficiency based on the installationangle of each solar collection panel 430. The ability to install solarcollection panels 430 at different directions and angles may increasethe power generation efficiency of the structure because the panels maybe individually positioned such that they are engaged by sunlight for anoptimum time as the sun moves across the sky throughout the day. Panelsmay also be arranged in particular configurations to capture sunlightthat would otherwise be obstructed if the solar collection panels 430were otherwise installed substantially parallel to the ground.

A non-uniform arrangement of solar collection panels 430 may bedesirable for environmental or aesthetic reasons. For example, thenon-uniform placement of solar collection panels 430 may be configuredto provide a desired lighting effect. To further achieve the desiredlighting effect, solar collection panels 430 may not be installed inparticular locations to allow light to pass through modular structure300/400 and reach the ground under modular structure 300/400.

In various embodiments, one or more shade panels 440 may be installed inSPHS 310/410 at one or more panel supports 350. Shade panels 440 may beinstalled in SPHS 310/410 with solar collection panels 430. Shade panels440 may be installed on SPHS 310/410 in a uniform manner. Shade panels440 may also be installed on SPHS 310/410 in a non-uniform manner. Thisnon-uniform arrangement of shade panels 440 may be desirable forenvironmental or aesthetic reasons. For example, the non-uniformplacement of shade panels 440 may be configured to provide a desiredlighting effect. Moreover, solar collection panels 430 and shade panels440 may not be installed at specific installation locations along panelsupports 350. The omission of panels at particular location may bedesirable to provide direct sunlight to vegetation or features placedunder modular structure 300/400.

In another exemplary embodiment and with momentary reference to FIG. 1and FIG. 4B, solar collection panels 130/430 are attached, removed andserviced from underneath the solar panels. For example, the majority of,or all, panel attachment devices and support mechanisms of solarcollection panel 130/430 can be accessed and operated from below thepanels. Similarly, solar collection panels 130/430 can be removed frombelow and replaced with different and/or more efficient panels.Moreover, the supporting connections and circuitry required to use theenergy created by solar collection panels 130/430, including forexample, an inverter may be located under and shaded by modularstructure 100/400. Moreover, the ability to access and service solarcollection panels 130/430 facilitates greater panel density whereinstallation space is confined because access from the top of thestructure defining the confined space would require access lanes wherepanels could otherwise be installed. Further, in a ground installation(e.g. a solar farm) the support structure made access from the bottom ofthe panel impractical. Moreover, because ground installations do notgenerally have concerns about space, access lanes can easily beincluded. Thus, in an exemplary embodiment, modular structure 100/400comprises a supporting structure that does not restrict the ability toremove and install solar collection panels, and/or similarly does notcomprise access lanes.

In another exemplary embodiment, modular structure 100/400 comprises oneor more sections of the structure configured to either move or rotate upor down or may be removed entirely to allow a person to move through themodular structure 100/400 to clean, service or inspect solar collectionpanels 130/430 and shade panels 140/440.

In an exemplary embodiment and with reference again to FIG. 3, FIG. 4A,FIG. 4B, and FIG. 4C, solar collection panels 430 and shade panels 440may be spaced apart when installed along panel support 350. Asinstalled, SPHS 310/410 may be installed at a height of 18 feet or more.As a result, SPHS 310/410 may be subjected to increased air flow fromwind. While this airflow does provide cooling, it may also exert forces,including for example, lift forces and shearing forces on SPHS 310/410.As such, solar collection panels 430 and shade panels 440 may be spacedapart. This spacing allows the airflows to pass through SPHS 310/410,which reduces the lift and/or shearing forces exerted on SPHS 310/410.

In an embodiment and with reference to FIG. 2, FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B, thevertical support may be configured as a brace-frame 520. One or morebrace-frames 520 may be installed at any locations to support andrestrain modular structure 200. In various embodiments, the dead load ofmodular structure 200 is isolated from the lateral load of modularstructure 200. More specifically, as assembled, modular structure 200has a unitary construction. As such, the lateral forces exerted onmodular structure 200 are translated by the structure to every point onthe structure. Therefore, these lateral forces may be counteracted atany point on the structure. This configuration reduces the structuralrequirements of the vertical supports 220/420 by making use ofbrace-frame 520 to resist the lateral forces of the modular structure200. In an embodiment, lateral brace-frames are placed in an x and yorientation on every beam line thereby creating lateral stability. Forexample, center section 311 may be supported above the ground (or otherstructural surface) by two (2) or more vertical supports 420 and by two(2) or more lateral brace-frames 521. Moreover, brace-frames 520 maycomprise a cladding support 522 and cladding 523. Cladding 523 may beused as signage elements to provide decorative graphics and/oradvertising space. Brace-frames 520 may be configured with signageelements that include, for example, backlit signs and electronicallycontrolled signs.

In an exemplary embodiment and with reference to FIG. 4 and FIGS. 6Athrough 6C, of solar collections panels 430 and shade panels 440 may bearranged to simulate a natural environment. Moreover, FIGS. 6A through6D show an exemplary process for laying out SPHS 420. For example andwith reference to FIG. 6A, the shadow of a tree branch may bephotographed. That photograph may be pixilated to create anapproximation of the tree shadow. This approximation of the tree shadowcan further adjusted, as shown in FIG. 6C and FIG. 6D, to achieve thedesired shade coverage and power output. Adjustments may be made basedon a variety of factors. For example: (1) solar collection panels 430may be added to increase the overall power generation of modularstructure 400; (2) solar collection panels 430 and shade panels 440 maybe removed to decrease the weight of modular structure 400; (3) solarcollection panels 430 and shade panels 440 may be removed to decreasethe effect of lift or shearing force on modular structure 400; (4) solarcollection panels 430 and shade panels 440 may be removed to increasethe amount of light that reaches vegetation or structures under modularstructure 400; and/or (5) solar collection panels 430 and shade panels440 may be added or removed to achieve a desired lighting effect (e.g.dappling or stippling of light) under modular structure 400. Althoughthe dappling pattern may be based off of a photograph, any suitablemethod of arriving at the pattern of solar panels and/or shade panelscan be used.

In an embodiment and with reference to FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B, solarcollection panels 730 and shade panels 740 may be arranged in anysuitable way to achieve a desired environmental effect. Similarly, thespacing between panels in SPHS 720, the ability to achieve customizablelighting arrangements, and the increased height of modular structure 700provide a more pleasing experience for a user under the structure.

In an embodiment, the increased height of vertical support 720 alsoprovides greater visibility underneath the shade structure. For example,where modular structure 700 is installed over a parking lot in front ofa store, the user of the parking lot is able to see the store front frombeneath the modular structure 700. Conventional shade structures overparking lots are generally low enough that they at least partiallyobstruct the view of the store front from the parking lot. Thisvisibility of the store front is useful in advertising and/or promotingthe store. This visibility is also useful for the consumer to maintaintheir bearings and/or find the store the consumer is looking for. In anexemplary embodiment, the enhanced visibility, the openness of the spaceunderneath modular structure 700, and/or the security cameras provide anenvironment of enhanced safety for the people under the structure. Thesefeatures are also more likely to have a deterrent effect on theft,assault, vandalism, and other crime or mischief.

In an embodiment, installation of modular structure 100 may be used togenerate revenue and offset the cost of producing solar energy. Forexample, signage may be attached to modular structure 100 in variouslocations. Signage may include advertising, information signs, and thelike. Signage may be electronic media or printed in any fashion. In theform of advertising, revenue from the signage may be used to reduce oroffset the cost of solar energy produced. In an embodiment, modularstructure 100 is configured to provide shade. This shade may also beused to offset or reduce the cost of solar energy produced. For example,where modular structure 100 is installed over a parking lot, the parkinglot owner may charge a fee to park in a shaded space. At least a portionof the revenue generated by the parking fees may be used to offset thecost of the solar energy produced. In an embodiment, modular structure100 may be installed at a location as a result of donations. Forexample, modular structure 100 may be installed on a school campus,museum, zoo or similar location. Supporters of the location orassociated organization may be given the opportunity to buy solar panelsor donate toward the cost of solar panels or modular structure 100construction. At least a portion of the revenue from the donations maybe used to offset the cost of the solar energy produced. Given theheight and size of the structure, revenue may also be generated byallowing antennas to be installed on the structure, by charging fees forusing the space under the structure, by charging fees for locatingelectric car charging stations under the structure and/or the like. Atleast a portion of the revenue may be used to offset the cost ofgenerating solar energy.

In an embodiment, a method of designing a solar structure may comprisecapturing a shade profile of a natural element as a photograph;pixilating the photograph; adjusting a contrast ratio of the pixilatedphotograph based on a set of predetermined factors to achieve a designplan; and designing an arrangement of a plurality of solar collectionpanels to correspond to the design plan. In one embodiment, theplurality of solar collection panels may be installed on a structure inaccordance with the design plan in a public area. In an embodiment, thepredetermined factors include at least one of lifting force load,shearing force load, desired lighting effects, and weight requirements.

While the principles of this disclosure have been shown in variousembodiments, many modifications of structure, arrangements, proportions,elements, materials and components (which are particularly adapted for aspecific environment and operating requirements) may be used withoutdeparting from the principles and scope of this disclosure. These andother changes or modifications are intended to be included within thescope of the present disclosure and may be expressed in the followingclaims.

The present disclosure has been described with reference to variousembodiments. However, one of ordinary skill in the art appreciates thatvarious modifications and changes can be made without departing from thescope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the specification is to beregarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense, and allsuch modifications are intended to be included within the scope of thepresent disclosure. Likewise, benefits, other advantages, and solutionsto problems have been described above with regard to variousembodiments.

However, benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any element(s)that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or becomemore pronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, oressential feature or element of any or all the claims. As used herein,the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” or any other variation thereof, areintended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process,method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does notinclude only those elements but may include other elements not expresslylisted or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus.

When language similar to “at least one of A, B, or C” or “at least oneof A, B, and C” is used in the claims or specification, the phrase isintended to mean any of the following: (1) at least one of A; (2) atleast one of B; (3) at least one of C; (4) at least one of A and atleast one of B; (5) at least one of B and at least one of C; (6) atleast one of A and at least one of C; or (7) at least one of A, at leastone of B, and at least one of C.

1. (canceled)
 2. A solar energy shade structure, comprising: a planarsolar panel support structure; a plurality of solar panels; a pluralityof elongated structural members coupled to the planar solar panelsupport structure, the planar solar panel support structure supportingeach solar panel of the plurality of solar panels with at least oneelongated structural member from the plurality of elongated structuralmembers, wherein each solar panel of the plurality of solar panels isstationary relative to the planar solar panel support structure; and aplurality of vertical supports connected to the planar solar panelsupport structure for supporting the planar solar panel supportstructure elevated above a surface, wherein: one of the plurality ofsolar panels is a front panel, another of the plurality of solar panelsis a rear panel, the solar energy shade structure has a panel density ina first direction, the first direction is along a line extending fromthe front panel to the rear panel, and the panel density is greater whenfixing the front panel at a fixed angle that is inclined at less than 15degrees relative to a horizontal plane than when the plurality of solarpanels are inclined at an angle that is optimal for energy generation ofa respective solar panel in the plurality of solar panels.
 3. The solarenergy shade structure of claim 2, wherein the planar solar panelsupport structure further comprises a first plurality of structuralbeams extending in a second direction and a second plurality ofstructural beams extending in a third direction, wherein the seconddirection and the third direction define a first plane, wherein thefirst plurality of structural beams and the second plurality ofstructural beams form a planar arrangement of intersecting structuralbeams in said first plane.
 4. The solar energy shade structure of claim2, wherein the planar solar panel support structure at least partiallycovers a building or structure and at least one of a sitting area and acourtyard.
 5. The solar energy shade structure of claim 2, wherein thesolar energy shade structure covers a first group of parking spaces, asecond group of parking spaces and a drive aisle with an arrangement ofthe plurality of solar panels that is uninterrupted by the drive aisle.6. The solar energy shade structure of claim 2, wherein the solar energyshade structure contiguously covers walkways.
 7. The solar energy shadestructure of claim 2, wherein an arrangement of the plurality of solarpanels is uninterrupted by service or access lanes.
 8. The solar energyshade structure of claim 2, wherein the fixed angle is non-optimal forgenerating energy in favor of creating shade.
 9. The solar energy shadestructure of claim 2, wherein the plurality of solar panels are attachedto the planar solar panel support structure such that each of theplurality of solar panels can be installed, serviced, and removed frombelow the planar solar panel support structure.
 10. The solar energyshade structure of claim 2, wherein a height of the planar solar panelsupport structure, as measured between the surface and a bottom side ofthe planar solar panel support structure, is at least 18 feet.
 11. Thesolar energy shade structure of claim 2, wherein the plurality of solarpanels, on the planar solar panel support structure, are supported withspacing between at least some of the plurality of solar panels to allowsunlight to pass through the solar energy shade structure.
 12. The solarenergy shade structure of claim 3, wherein each solar panel in theplurality of solar panels is disposed adjacent to an adjacent solarpanel in the plurality of solar panels, each panel being separated fromthe adjacent solar panel by a fixed gap in the first plane.
 13. A solarenergy shade structure, comprising: a solar panel support structurecomprising a first plurality of structural beams extending in a firstdirection and a second plurality of structural beams extending in asecond direction, wherein the solar panel support structure is supportedby a plurality of vertical supports above a surface; a plurality ofsolar collection panels, each solar collection panel extending from astructural beam in the first plurality of structural beams to anelongated structural member coupled to an adjacent structural beam inthe first plurality of structural beams such that each solar collectionpanel in the plurality of solar collection panels is stationary relativeto the solar panel support structure, wherein: one of the plurality ofsolar collection panels is a front panel, another of the plurality ofsolar collection panels is a rear panel, the solar energy shadestructure has a panel density in a third direction, the third directionis along a line extending from the front panel to the rear panel, andthe panel density is greater when a fixed angle is less than 15 degreesrelative to a horizontal plane than when the plurality of solarcollection panels are inclined at an angle that is optimal for energygeneration.
 14. The solar energy shade structure of claim 13, whereinthe solar energy shade structure contiguously covers a first group ofparking spaces, a second group of parking spaces and a drive aisle withan arrangement of the plurality of solar collection panels that isuninterrupted by the drive aisle.
 15. The solar energy shade structureof claim 13, wherein the first plurality of structural beams and thesecond plurality of structural beams define a first plane and form aplanar arrangement of intersecting structural beams in said first plane.16. The solar energy shade structure of claim 13, wherein a height ofthe solar panel support structure, as measured between the surface and abottom side of the solar panel support structure, is at least 18 feet.17. The solar energy shade structure of claim 13, wherein a majority ofthe plurality of solar collection panels are fixed at the angle that isnon-optimal for energy generation of a respective solar panel in themajority of the plurality of solar collection panels, but results inoptimal power density for the solar energy shade structure.
 18. Thesolar energy shade structure of claim 13, wherein the solar panelsupport structure at least partially covers at least one of a sittingarea and a court yard
 19. The solar energy shade structure of claim 13,wherein the solar panel support structure at least partially covers abuilding or structure.
 20. A method, comprising: shading, via a solarenergy shade structure, a first area type, the solar energy shadestructure including a plurality of solar collection panels, each solarcollection panel in the plurality of solar collection panels including aplurality of solar panels, each solar panel in the plurality of solarpanels disposed adjacent to an adjacent solar panel in the plurality ofsolar panels; and generating, via the solar energy shade structure,energy from the plurality of solar panels, wherein: one of the pluralityof solar panels is a front panel, and another of the plurality of solarpanels is a rear panel, the solar energy shade structure has a paneldensity in a direction, the direction is along a line extending from thefront panel to the rear panel, and the panel density is greater whenfixing the front panel at a fixed angle that is inclined at less than 15degrees relative to a horizontal plane than when the plurality of solarpanels are inclined at an angle that is optimal for energy generation ofa respective solar panel in the plurality of solar panels.
 21. Themethod of claim 20, wherein the fixed angle is non-optimal forgenerating energy in favor of creating shade.